Sadbhav Sammelan Explores Hate Speech and Interfaith Harmony

The Sadbhav Sammelan, organized by Sadbhav, Pilar, Fr. Agnel College of Arts and Commerce, Pilar, and the Department of Philosophy, DCT’s Dhempe College of Arts and Science, Miramar, provided a powerful platform for critical discussions on Hate Speech: A Divisive Rhetoric and Threat to Interfaith Harmony. The conference brought together intellectuals, activists, and concerned citizens to deliberate on the urgent need for peace, respect, and inclusivity in society. The conference was held at the Pilar Pilgrim Centre on the 8th of February on the occasion of World Interfaith Harmony Week.

The event was graced by eminent personalities, including Chief Guest Shri Arvind Bhatikar IAS (Retd.), Rev. Dr. Frederico Rodrigues, Principal of Fr. Agnel College, Dr. Swati Pawar, Vice Principal of Dhempe College, alongside distinguished speakers Rev. Fr. Lawrence Fernandes, Dr. Roshida Rodrigues, and Shri Sandesh Prabhudesai. The conference began with an invocation prayer led by Ms Janessa D’Mello and a Shanti Mantra in Sanskrit chanted by Dr. Fr. Elvis Fernandes, the convenor of Sadbhav Sammelan, setting a reflective tone for the discussions. Fr. Lawrence Fernandes emphasized the importance of respecting all faiths and avoiding divisive rhetoric, while Fr. Joaquim Rebello, the Provincial Superior of the Goa Province, reinforced the universal principle of "Love your neighbour as yourself," warning against indifference to others’ suffering.

Shri Arvind Bhatikar provided key insights into the legal provisions of the Indian Penal Code regarding hate speech, urging both intellectual reflection and practical action to counter this growing threat. Keynote Speaker Shri Sandesh Prabhudesai presented an insightful perspective on Goa’s legacy of communal harmony, highlighting the absence of a direct word for "hate" in Konkani—symbolizing the region’s deep-rooted unity. He reminded attendees that Goa’s diversity is its strength and called for integration of all religions under the true essence of secularism and Manispann (Humanity).

The interactive session on the "Weaponization of Social Media", led by Mr. Praveen Sabnis, explored the dangers of digital platforms being used to spread hatred. He urged participants to verify facts, assess fairness, and consider the impact before sharing any content, advocating for responsible media use to foster unity.

In the concluding session, Ms. Tallulah D’Silva and Mr. Asim Shaikh engaged participants in developing practical strategies to combat hate-driven narratives. The discussions were further enriched by a musical performance by Saree Seekers and a skit by Uzwaad NGO members and Dhempe College students, creatively raising awareness on the issue.

The conference concluded with remarks from Fr. Milton Rodrigues and Ms. Sendra Florence Pereira, who reiterated the collective responsibility of fostering communal harmony. Ms. Irene George, programme coordinator proposed the vote of thanks. Sadbhav Sammelan served as a vital reminder that promoting peace, conscious speech, and mindful actions is not just an ideal but an ongoing commitment.